Is Guyana More Motivated to Advocate for UNSC Reform?
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Synopsis
Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, reveals heightened motivation for advocating reforms in the UN Security Council, following an inside look at its functions. This commitment underscores a broader call for enhancing representation of developing nations.
Key Takeaways
- Guyana is advocating for reform in the UN Security Council.
- Rodrigues-Birkett emphasizes the need for better representation for developing nations.
- The CARICOM model supports expanding membership categories.
- India seeks Guyana's support for a permanent seat in the Council.
- Guyana plans to focus on children in armed conflict during its presidency.
United Nations, June 3 (NationPress) After observing the Security Council's operations firsthand, Guyana's Permanent Representative to the UN, Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, expressed that her nation is “even more driven to push for reform”.
Rodrigues-Birkett, who has taken on the role of President of the Council for June, stated during a press conference that Guyana is in favor of increasing both permanent and non-permanent members.
“The Security Council is the only body within the United Nations that fails to reflect the overall membership of the UN, and it is also undemocratic,” she commented.
She pointed out that developing nations, which constitute a significant portion of the UN membership, are not sufficiently represented on the Council.
“Having served on the Council for several months, we are even more committed to advocating for reform of the Security Council,” she stated.
Shashi Tharoor, the leader of the Indian Parliamentary delegation that visited Guyana last week, mentioned that India will officially seek Guyana's backing for a permanent seat.
Guyana supports the CARICOM model for reform, which calls for an expansion of both the permanent and non-permanent member categories, Rodrigues-Birkett noted.
The 15-member CARICOM, a regional organization of Caribbean nations, has proposed to add permanent and non-permanent members from Asia, Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean; one permanent member from Western Europe, a non-permanent member from Eastern Europe, along with a non-permanent seat reserved for a small island developing state.
This arrangement would enable India to claim a permanent seat.
The CARICOM also endorses the African Union's demand for two permanent and two non-permanent seats for the continent, Rodrigues-Birkett remarked.
She further mentioned that Guyana aims to eliminate the veto power of permanent members, which often leads to a standstill within the Council.
However, if veto rights are retained, new permanent members should also be granted that privilege, she added.
Guyana assumed the rotational presidency of the UN Security Council from Greece on Monday for the month of June.
Rodrigues-Birkett highlighted that the focus during this period will be on the protection of children in armed conflict, conflict prevention, as well as peace and security.
She also shared that the “signature event” will take place on June 19, featuring a high-level open debate on poverty, underdevelopment, and conflict: implications for the maintenance of international peace and security.
Point of View
It is clear that Guyana's push for reform in the UN Security Council is both timely and necessary. The call for improved representation of developing nations highlights an essential gap in the current structure, advocating for a more democratic approach that aligns with the UN's foundational values.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current position of Guyana in the UN?
Guyana currently holds the presidency of the UN Security Council for June, focusing on advocating for reforms.
What reforms is Guyana advocating for?
Guyana is advocating for the addition of more permanent and non-permanent members to the Security Council to enhance representation.
What is the CARICOM model for reform?
The CARICOM model proposes expanding permanent and non-permanent member categories, including representation from various regions.
What is the significance of the Security Council's reform?
Reforming the Security Council is crucial for ensuring that it reflects the diverse membership of the UN and operates democratically.
What will be the focus of Guyana's presidency in June?
The focus will be on issues such as the protection of children in armed conflict and the relationship between poverty, underdevelopment, and security.
